Muharram: The Islamic New Year

A brand-new chapter begins with the sighting of a new moon. The Islamic calendar new year begins when the moon is in its crescent stage. This phase of the moon is what indicates it is the holy month of Muharram for Muslims globally. Muharram is the first month in the Islamic lunar calendar and is also one of the four sacred months in Islam. You can think of Muharram 2025 as the month in which Muslims will engage in deep spirituality, remembering Allah SWT and the important events that took place in such a holy month.

When is Muharram 2025?

Muharram 2025 is expected to begin on the evening of Friday, June 27, 2025, subject to the sighting of the moon. Since the Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles, dates may vary slightly depending on geographical location. Nevertheless, the beginning of Muharram marks the Islamic New Year, a time to look back on the past year with gratitude and seek blessings and guidance for the year ahead.

The Significance of the Month of Muharram

Often referred to as “the Sacred Month”, the month of Muharram holds a unique place in Islam. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) described it as “the month of Allah”, highlighting its spiritual weight. Fasting during this month, particularly on the 10th of Muharram, also known as Ashura, is highly recommended and was practiced even before the fasting of Ramadan was made obligatory.

But what makes this month truly stand out is not only its sacredness but also the profound historical and religious events associated with it, particularly what happened on 10 Muharram.

What Happened on 10 Muharram?

The 10th Muharram, or Day of Ashura, is remembered for multiple reasons across the Muslim world. It is a day of both mourning and hope, of tragedy and triumph.

One of the earliest known events associated with this day is the deliverance of the Prophet Musa (Moses) and the Israelites from the tyranny of Pharaoh. In gratitude to Allah, Prophet Musa fasted on this day. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), upon learning of this, also encouraged Muslims to fast on the Day of Ashura, emphasising its virtue and reward.

However, for many Muslims, especially within the Shia tradition, what happened on 10 Muharram in the year 680 CE (61 AH) carries profound emotional and spiritual significance. On this day, Imam Hussain ibn Ali, the beloved grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), was martyred in the tragic Battle of Karbala. Standing against tyranny, injustice, and corruption, Imam Hussain and his small band of followers, many of whom were family members, chose sacrifice over submission.

Their courage and unwavering faith in the face of insurmountable odds have turned Ashura into a day of reflection, remembrance, and a call to uphold justice and righteousness, no matter the cost.

It is very important that a believer has firm faith and is not easily bribed and led astray. We can learn from the stories of the Prophets about how, despite being held in the most severe circumstances, they kept their Imaan (faith) concrete. Consider the following verses for the Holy Quran:

“O you who have believed, when you meet those who disbelieve advancing [for battle], do not turn your backs to them [in flight].”

“And whoever turns his back to them on such a day—unless it be a strategy of war or to join [another] group—has certainly incurred the wrath of Allah, and his refuge is Hell—and wretched is the destination.”
(Qur’an 8:15–16)

What we can learn from the verses mentioned above is that turning back in battle out of cowardice or fear is condemned in Islam. By abandoning a battlefield without a valid reason is considered a major sin and leads to Allah’s wrath.

Calendar Differences

The Islamic lunar calendar is very different from the Gregorian calendar in several ways. In the Gregorian calendar, the first month is called January and in the Islamic lunar calendar the first month is known as Muharram. On the first of January people celebrate a formally known event called New Year, where fireworks are let off at midnight and texts are sent amongst loved ones to wish them a happy new year! On the other hand, the Islamic new year is a lot quieter, believers often spend their time reflecting on the important events that took place in the month of Muharram and, depending on their sect, they approach this month in different ways.

Prepare Like a Pro

A great way to approach the Islamic new year is to write down a few goals for yourself. Consider our recommendations of self-improvement in the following categories: Spirituality, health, relationships and finances.

Pray Allah SWT blesses you from his bounty and puts barakah (blessings) in your earnings, staying away from haram income, blesses you with great and honest trading skills in business and keeps you guarded from the devil’s whispers and evil.

A goal in spirituality can look like practicing a new Surah from the Holy Quran and increasing Dhikr (supplication) during the day. Maybe you ought to learn the Holy Quran with Tajweed (correct pronunciation and rhythm). Another way you can push yourself in the new Islamic year is to learn the 99 names of Allah.

Relationships are essential in Islam, knowing this world is a test and that we will be questioned on how we treated our family members, colleagues, neighbours and strangers is a call for you to self-reflect on how you treat others.

Personal health is another essential aspect of personal growth. Tune into your health and observe your body. If you’re constantly neglecting your health and wellbeing, you can risk being prone to health complications. Diet and exercise go together, so focus on getting fitter for the year ahead.

As we approach Muharram 2025, let us remember that every new year is a blessing and a chance to grow closer to Allah. It’s a time to revisit the teachings of the Prophet, reflect on the legacy of Imam Hussain, and deepen our commitment to living a life of integrity, compassion, and devotion.

Supporting Orphans During Muharram

The spirit of Muharram also reminds us of our duty to care for the most vulnerable members of our society. Orphans and widows were central figures in the tragedy of Karbala, making this month an especially meaningful time to remember and support them.

At Orphans In Need, we strive to honour the legacy of compassion and service that Islam teaches by providing food, shelter, education, and emotional support to orphaned children across the world. This Islamic New Year, as we reflect on the courage and sacrifices of the past, let us also commit to building a better future for those who need our help the most.

Your donations during the month of Muharram can make a life-changing difference. Whether it’s sponsoring an orphan, contributing to our food aid programs, or supporting education initiatives, your generosity is a light of hope in a world where many still live in darkness.

As the crescent moon ushers in Muharram 2025, we are reminded of the rich spiritual legacy and moral lessons this month offers. From the liberation of Prophet Musa to the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the 10th Muharram stands as a powerful symbol of faith, resilience, and justice.

Let us use the start of the Islamic Calendar New Year to renew our hearts, reconnect with our faith, and rededicate ourselves to serving humanity—especially the orphaned and the vulnerable. May this sacred month bring peace, healing, and divine blessings to all.

Support a child today. Change a life forever.

Visit Orphans In Need to learn more and donate this Muharram